A London children’s charity has celebrated its 60th anniversary with a special royal guest at Hampton Court Palace.
Her Royal Highness Princess Michael of Kent attended the Horse Rangers Association (HRA) at a Royal Gala Dinner in the Cartoon Gallery and Great Hall of the palace.
HRA Trustee Gemma Ratcliffe, who organised the event, said she was delighted with the celebrations.
“It was a privilege and remarkable gesture, made by the kindness of sponsorship by the palace,” she said.
“We are also greatly honoured that our patron, Her Royal Highness Princess Michael of Kent, attended as well as the Mayors of Richmond, Kingston and Elmbridge”.
The special occasion, on September 22, was part-sponsored by Bentalls and NatWest.
Director of HRA Geoffrey Godbold, paid tribute to the organisations and volunteers who ensure the smooth running of the charity.
He explained: “Sponsorship for our charity is vital –the costs of running our operation are great.
“Also without the 200 volunteers we have we couldn’t exist.”
Guests were given a guard of honour by young horse rangers as they were shown through to the hall.
Today the charity, which believes that horse management and riding should be available to all young people and not just the wealthy, utilises its 30 horses to assist in the personal development of rangers.
More than 400 members, from all backgrounds and abilities, are formed into cadet squadrons learning comradeship, teamwork and the importance of taking responsibility.
For more information visit http://www.horserangers.com/
